Framing The Semantics of Film-Making: Part IThe Semantics of Film-Making: Part I

Framing

Viewers are positioned so they respond to represented figures in visual images with varying degrees of familiarity.

The varying degrees of what is called in filmic terms the close-up, then, may be said to be the realm of personal relations. What may be described as medium shots (close social distance) represent the realm of social relations, and long shots (far social distance) represent public relations.

What is inside and outside a frame changes the meaning of What is inside and outside a frame changes the meaning of a shot.a shot.

Frames - I

Close UpClose UpTo focus attention, convey To focus attention, convey

intimacy, or capture an intimacy, or capture an emotional reaction.emotional reaction.

Very Long ShotVery Long ShotTo establish the setting To establish the setting where the action will take where the action will take

place.place.

Frames - II

Medium Close Up ShotMedium Close Up ShotCommunicates gestures, broadCommunicates gestures, broadexpressions, and action framedexpressions, and action framed

within close limits;within close limits;to give a sense of personal to give a sense of personal

proximity.proximity.

Two ShotTwo ShotAn image that includes twoAn image that includes two

characters, and used to reveal their characters, and used to reveal their relationship and interaction.relationship and interaction.

Frames - III

Mid Range ShotMid Range ShotUse to communicate action andUse to communicate action and

interaction of characters andinteraction of characters andshow only a little background.show only a little background.

Over the Shoulder ShotOver the Shoulder ShotUse to draw the audience intoUse to draw the audience into

the action, as if they are presentthe action, as if they are present

and looking over someoneand looking over someone’’s shoulder.s shoulder.